This is what happens when you release your most expensive handheld ever with no killer-app and stale technology (stereoscopic 3D):
“Nintendo 3DS has not been selling as expected since the second week, and this is not just in the Japanese market but also in the United States and Europe, where no direct impact from the great earthquake has occurred,” Nintendo president Satoru Iwata admited Tuesday. “Therefore, we recognize that we are in a situation where we need to step up our efforts to further promote the 3DS.”
As I’ve said before, everything changes the day Nintendo releases a truly inspired and must-have game. Until then, I wouldn’t expect any up tick in 3DS sales without a price drop. Even then, the thing will still need compelling games.